Ultrafast Laser Processing Theory, Applications & Transfer – ULTRA responsible R. Stoian

The ULTRA project follows an approach of research and development encompassing fundamental studies, laser applications in material processing and technology transfer. The main objectives refer to:

• Gaining access and new knowledge on laser-matter interaction mechanisms,

• Developing high throughput methods for surface and bulk 3D micro- and nano-structuring using designer ultrashort laser pulses, notably smart reconfigurable processing techniques based on pulse spatial and temporal vectorial pulse shaping.

• Developing performant investigation tools for probing dynamic processes.

• Developing advanced simulation methods for describing ultrafast phenomena on surfaces and in the bulk, adaptive-predictive hydrodynamic codes, first principle quantum calculations, and nonlinear pulse propagation approaches.

• Evaluating the possibility of industrial transfer particularly in the field of laser marking, additive manufacturing, tribology, and optics.

The emphasis lies in proposing processing tools which are matter- and shape adaptable using current laser beam engineering methods in temporal and spatial domains and adaptive, intelligent feedback loops. We are currently integrating in processing technologies pulse shaping techniques able to channel in a judicious way the energy flow in the excited matter towards optimal processing results on arbitrary patterns, as well as high efficiency parallel structuring methods. A particular interest is dedicated to 3D processing for integrated optical systems and 2D surface structuring for mechanical (tribological), microfluidics, and marking applications.

Current highlights:

• 3D refractive index control in optical glasses and embedded photonics using designer pulses.

• Real time spatial beam engineering for 2D and 3D parallel processing, corrective beam delivery, non-diffractive beams.

• Dispersion engineering, programmable Fourier frequency synthesis and temporal pulse shaping for optimal laser processing approaches.

• Micro and nanostructuring using nanoscale self-organization of matter,  orientation and scale control.

• Processing beyond diffraction limit.

• Control of thermodynamic evolution paths of excited matter; application in nanostructuring.

• Predictive and adaptive simulation tools for describing material behaviors under laser excitation.